NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE: Full Rehabilitation Project Complete

JAMESTOWN, R.I. – The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) would like
to announce the completion of the full rehabilitation of the Newport Pell Bridge
steel superstructure. This project started in 2009 and cost nearly $100 million
dollars to complete. It included an environmentally conscious, commercial blast
removal of the existing protective coatings and replacement with a three-coat system
of a specialty protective coating in the color “Newport Blue.” The replacement
coating system is intended for the protection of steel structures in marine
environments. Over 3.5 Million Square Feet of steel surface area was blast cleaned
and painted under this project. The full rehabilitation project also included
repairs to corroded steel elements which in turn returned them to their original
structural capacity. The completion of the repairs and installation of the new
protective coating system has brought the bridge to function in the same manner as
when it was originally constructed in the late 1960s. This completed work shall have
a life expectancy of approximately 20 years. RITBA’s Maintenance Department will
provide the necessary upkeep to ensure the completed work’s longevity. This full
rehabilitation project was completed on time, within budget and with minimal
disturbance to the public by the general contractors Abhe & Svoboda, Inc., Aetna
Bridge Company and Ahern Painting Contractors, Inc. with the assistance of the
engineering consultant, WSP/Parsons Brinckerhoff and the inspection services of
Keville Enterprises. RITBA would like to give thanks to all for the high level of
professionalism shown in completing this project. As a result, lane closures were
minimized, major delays on the bridge were avoided, and continuous coordination
aided in avoiding any major issues. To stay up-to-date and receive the latest on
real-time traffic and RITBA’s construction activity, visit RITBA.org. This site
provides the latest information concerning lane closures, construction activity and
traffic delays for the Newport Pell, Jamestown Verrazzano, Mount Hope and Sakonnet
River Bridges, in addition to the RT. 138 Connector.